Siren Rock by Laurie Keck Read Free Book Online Page A

that, boy.”
    He then quietly chuckled and gave Bandit’s fur a tousle. “You know something, this isn’t so bad. I don’t need to be reminded of what could have been. Larina and I are together now, and that’s all that matters.”
     
    * * * *
     
    When Larina returned from the marina, she went to the veranda and sat on the arm of a chair.
    Grant asked, “What’s wrong?”
    “Case called. He told me that, while he was in town this morning, someone had chopped down our small tree. He planted that tree for me, for us.”
    She held her hands over her mouth. Grant got up and went over and put his arm around her.
    “I’m sorry dear. One has to wonder, who would do such a thing?”
    “He thinks it was Annette.”
    Grant gave a slight nod.
    Larina bit her lip as she continued. “He told me she knew of the tree. He’s also worried for us. He fears she may know that he’s in contact with me.”
    Grant placed his hands in his pant pockets and began to pace. “None of this is terribly surprising. She doesn’t want him to be happy. She never has. Once she learned he wouldn’t give up the idea of being with you, it got worse. She’s sabotaged him every chance she gets.”
    “What do you mean? Have you been in touch with Case the last few years?”
    Grant turned to face her. “We’ve spoken, yes. We do go to the same general store in town. He also had quite a difficult time when his grandfather passed several months ago. We’ve spoken quite often since.”
    Larina lowered her head. “I should’ve reached out at that time.” She put her head back as she spoke. “He raised Case; he was often all he had growing up. I’m so glad you were there for him, Daddy. Thank you.”
    Grant motioned with his head. “Did you ask him over?”
    Larina bit her lip. “I did.”
    “That’s my girl. He may need you now more than any other time.”
     
    * * * *
     
    Case drove up and buzzed the intercom. The gate opened and he made his way up the drive. He parked outside the Bixby home. As instructed, he took the cobblestone walk to the rear of the property. He was surprised to find the gate unlocked. He cautiously opened it and announced himself as he entered.
    “Hello. It’s Case.”
    Sunmoon went running over to meet him and Bandit. Case propped his guitar against a tree as he bent down to greet him.
    “Hey boy thanks for the warm welcome.”
    Larina stepped around the corner from the grill area.
    “Hi.” She made her way to him and kissed him.
    He raised his brows. “Thank you for the warm welcome. You said to bring Bandit.”
    “Yeah, of course, I’m glad you did.”
    She took his hand and led him near the fire pit. “I’m sorry about the tree.” She motioned to the loveseat. “Have a seat. I’ll get you a drink. Do you have a preference?”
    He sat and shook his head. “Thanks, I could use one. No, whatever you’re serving.”
    “Okay, I’ll be right back.”
    She went to the outdoor bar and came back with a jar and handed it to him with a mug.
    He laughed. “Moonshine, I feel right at home.” He glanced toward the gate. “I brought my guitar, had hoped your father and I might play some. It’s been a long time. They’re nice memories.”
    She laughed. “Oh, if you drink that, I have no doubt you will.”
    Grant came on to the veranda and, seeing Case, offered a broad smile and handshake. “Case, it is good to see you, son!”
    Case jumped out of his seat. “Yes, sir, always a pleasure to see you. Thank you for having me.”
    “I am sorry to hear about your tree.”
    “Thanks. Yeah, I was quite upset.”
    Grant motioned for Case to take a seat. “I brought you a cigar.”
    Case sat as he spoke. “Ah, thank you. As for the tree, I soon realized that, whoever did that, they did me a favor.” He addressed Larina. “That tree represented the past, a longing for what could have been. With you, coming back as you have that tree and all it represented …” He shook his head. “I no longer need that.